Crosby, the Penguins captain, hasn't played in a game since January because of a concussion.

NBC's first game will be Nov. 25 — the day after Thanksgiving — when Boston hosts the Detroit Red Wings. The network will air the Winter Classic on Jan. 2 as the New York Rangers play at Philadelphia.

NBC Sports Group and the NHL are entering the first year of a 10-season deal reportedly worth $2 billion. Boston's Cup-clinching win over the Canucks in June earned a 4.8 rating, the NHL's highest-rated game in 37 years.